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Biophilic design is gaining traction among architects and designers worldwide, moving beyond traditional elements like houseplants and views to incorporate trees as central features in buildings and public spaces. This approach not only enhances aesthetics but also promotes sustainability, reflecting a growing trend towards integrating nature into architectural practice.
Public spaces are leading the charge in tree-centric design. Notable examples include the Ford Foundation in New York, which boasts a 12-story atrium filled with magnolias, eucalyptus, and jacaranda trees. Similarly, Brookfield Place in lower Manhattan features 16 towering Washingtonia palm trees, creating a tropical ambiance within its Winter Garden atrium. Singapore’s Jewel Changi Airport stands out with a six-acre indoor forest housing 2,500 trees from Madagascar, Australia, and Southeast Asia. These innovative spaces serve as inspiration for architects to incorporate similar designs in residential and commercial projects.
The concept of “greenscrapers” and tree-integrated apartments is also on the rise. Milan’s Bosco Verticale, designed by Stefano Boeri, showcases a 44-story residential tower featuring 800 trees and various shrubs, enveloping the building in greenery. In the Netherlands, Boeri’s Trudo Vertical Forest provides low-income housing wrapped in trees on all four facades, demonstrating that sustainability can be accessible.
In private residences, trees are increasingly viewed as integral design elements rather than mere yard features. ODA Architecture’s New Delhi penthouse incorporates a ficus microcarpa within a reflective infinity pool, creating a tranquil indoor-outdoor space. In Southern California, KAA Design Group’s project celebrates ancient cork oaks, incorporating a 300-year-old tree as a focal point that enhances the property’s views and history.
When live trees are impractical, designers are finding creative alternatives. In Paso Robles, California, a charred manzanita from a 2016 fire has been transformed into an art installation, painted flat black to symbolize resilience and renewal.
Implementing trees in architectural designs requires careful consideration. Factors such as soil depth, natural light, and regional climate are crucial for tree health. For instance, the palm trees at Brookfield Place are replaced every decade due to limited exposure to outdoor elements, highlighting the need for trees to adapt gradually to their environments.
As biophilic design continues to evolve, the role of trees in both urban and residential landscapes is set to expand. Whether through vertical forests, integrated courtyards, or artistic expressions, these projects emphasize the deep connection between humans and nature, reinforcing the idea that trees are not just design elements but vital components of our living spaces.
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